JAWBONES Meaning and
Definition
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Jawbones, also known as mandibles, are the strong, bony structures found in the skull of vertebrates, specifically in the lower part of the face, providing framework and support for the mouth and teeth. They are primarily responsible for facilitating the process of chewing, biting, and speech.
In humans, the jawbones are composed of two main parts, the upper jawbone called the maxilla, and the lower jawbone known as the mandible. The maxilla is a fixed bone and forms the upper dental arch, containing the upper teeth, whereas the mandible is the only movable bone in the skull, allowing for the opening and closing of the mouth. The mandible also houses the lower teeth, maintaining their alignment and aiding in the grinding and mastication of food.
Jawbones exhibit a complex structure containing sockets, called dental alveoli, which hold the roots of the teeth firmly in place. They are connected to other bones of the skull through joints known as temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which facilitate the movement of the jaw during activities like eating and speaking.
Due to their essential role in oral functioning, any disorders or abnormalities affecting the jawbones can lead to difficulties in eating, speaking, or even breathing. These may necessitate medical interventions or treatments, such as orthodontics, oral surgery, or the use of dental appliances to restore normal function and maintain oral health.
Common Misspellings for JAWBONES
Etymology of JAWBONES
The word "jawbones" is formed by combining two nouns, "jaw" and "bones".
The etymology of "jaw" can be traced back to the Middle English word "jawe", which meant "the bones of the mouth" or "a portion of the mouth". This term has deep roots in Old English, where the word was "ceowan", also referring to the jaw or cheekbone.
The noun "bones" simply comes from the Old English word "ban", which meant "a bone". It is related to other Germanic languages such as German "Knochen" and Dutch "been".
When these two words are combined, "jawbones" refers to the bones in the jaw or mouth region.
Similar spelling words for JAWBONES
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